What is stevia and where does it come from?

Stevia is a natural sweetener extracted from the leaves of the stevia plant (Stevia rebaudiana), also known as honey herb. It is known for its intense sweetness and is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to sugar. Stevia is low in calories and has a low glycemic index, making it suitable for people watching their sugar intake or pursuing a healthy lifestyle.

Origin of stevia

The stevia plant is native to South America, where it has been used for centuries by the indigenous Guarani tribe of Paraguay as a sweetener and medicinal herb. The Guaranis call the plant "kaa heê", which means "sweet herb". They used the leaves of the stevia plant to sweeten their drinks and foods and as a remedy for various health problems.

The use of stevia

Sweetness and flavor profile

Stevia is known for its strong sweetening power. The sweeteners in the stevia plant, called steviol glycosides, are up to 300 times sweeter than sugar, but contain no calories. Stevia also has a unique flavor profile with a slight hint of bitterness, especially at high concentrations.

Applications of stevia

Stevia is used worldwide as a natural sweetener and can be found in a variety of foods and beverages, including soft drinks, yogurt, ice cream, candy, baked goods, and chewing gum. It is also used as a table top sweetener to sweeten hot drinks such as coffee and tea. Stevia is a popular alternative to sugar for people who want to follow a healthy lifestyle or who need to watch their blood sugar levels.

Stevia in the kitchen

Using stevia in cooking and baking

Stevia can be an excellent sugar substitute in cooking and baking. It's important to note that stevia has an intense sweetening power, so you only need a little. It is usually sold in powder form or as a liquid extract. When substituting sugar for stevia in recipes, it is recommended that you follow the manufacturer's instructions as the sweetening power may vary depending on the brand.

Stevia can be used in various recipes, such as cakes, cookies, smoothies and sauces. It can also be used to sweeten homemade syrups and dressings. Experiment with the amount of stevia to achieve the desired sweetness, but be careful, as too much stevia can leave a bitter aftertaste.

Conclusion

Stevia is a natural sweetener derived from the stevia plant. It has an intense sweetening power and is used worldwide as a sugar substitute in various foods and drinks. Stevia is a popular alternative to sugar among people who want to follow a healthy lifestyle. It can also be used in cooking and baking, but pay attention to the correct dosage because of its strong sweetening power. Discover the possibilities of stevia and enjoy a sweet taste without the calories.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is stevia safe to use?

Yes, stevia is safe for consumption. It is approved by several food authorities around the world, including the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

2. Does stevia have side effects?

Stevia generally has no side effects when used moderately. However, some people may experience a slight bitterness with high concentrations of stevia. Consult a doctor if you have any questions about using stevia.

3. Can stevia be used by people with diabetes?

Yes, stevia has a low glycemic index and does not affect blood sugar levels, making it a suitable sweetener for people with diabetes. It is always advisable to consult a doctor for personal advice.

4. Can I use stevia in cooking instead of sugar?

Yes, stevia can be used in cooking and baking as a sugar substitute. However, it is important to use the correct dosage because of the intense sweetening power. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for best results.

5. Where can I buy stevia?

Stevia is available at supermarkets, health food stores, and online stores. It is available in various forms such as powder and liquid extract. Pay attention to quality and purity when choosing stevia products.